Plug-in Hybrid cars (PHEV): introduction
Plug-in hybrids are a new way to drive and are now available as part of Citroën’s bold and powerfully engineered range of cars. If you want to drive a partially electrified vehicle, you can now take advantage of improved fuel economy and a whole range of driving benefits.
These new models are great for mobility needs in tight city spaces and come with the distinctive design that you have come to expect from a Citroën.
A plug-in hybrid model, like the New Citroën C5 X, combines the power of an 81.2 kW electric motor with a 6.3 petrol engine for when you’re heading out on greater distances. Find out more about the range now and get ready to drive into the future.
What is a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)?
A plug-in hybrid is a new kind of car that sits in between a hybrid vehicle and an electric car. Electric hybrid cars feature a battery and the ability to drive in fully electrified mode, unlike a traditional hybrid.
Plug-in hybrids also come with home charging capabilities to fill up your battery power before you set off. Alongside this battery power, you can expect a traditional petrol-powered engine as a backup power source.
How does a Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) work?
Plug-in hybrid cars draw power from two sources – in this case, a battery and petrol to provide the energy that your internal combustion engine needs.
You may be new to the world of hybrid driving and wondering what separates a hybrid vs a plug-in hybrid. The main difference is that a PHEV uses its battery as the main source of energy before drawing on its fuel-powered component.
How to get the best fuel economy with a Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)?
As you now know that a plug-in hybrid electric car utilises its electric battery to its full capacity before calling on the fuel you fill up with - the benefits for your fuel economy are clear.
With electricity’s lower cost you can use this energy as your main driving force. A plug-in hybrid car also uses regenerative braking – this technology stores power as your car slows down.
This energy would be wasted in a conventional engine, so a PHEV also improves your fuel economy with this innovation.
Should I buy a Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) car?
The ideal type of car for you will depend on a few things – if you are interested in trying electrified driving but want the safety of a backup engine, a PHEV is perfect for your driving needs.
If you are looking to reduce your fuel consumption, a PHEV is also more suitable than a hybrid as it makes greater use of its battery power.
Anyone interested in the tax benefits and lower running costs of a non-petrol-powered engine should also try a PHEV for themselves.
You should also keep in mind that for battery-powered driving that is longer than a daily commute you may wish to go for a fully electrified vehicle. Also, if you do not have the space for electric charging facilities at home, a self-charging hybrid may be more suited to you.
Which Citroën is the best Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) car?
Unlike larger and more fuel-intensive models, compact Citroën models like the New Citroën C5 X and New Citroën C5 Aircross offer a safe, comfortable and more environmentally friendly driving experience.
Each model has unique benefits – here are some of the top features to guide your choice of Citroën plug-in hybrid:
- For those on the hunt for local zero-emission driving: You can expect 34 miles of full electric range (WLTP) from the New Citroën C5 X Plug-In Hybrid and the New Citroën C5 Aircross Plug-in Hybrid.
- Fans of cutting-edge car design: The New Citroën C5 X’s silhouette is a unique blend of saloon, estate and SUV proportions.
- Anyone looking for the latest driving tech: Semi-autonomous driving in the New Citroën C5 X simplifies your experience behind the wheel.
- Drivers looking for the best fuel economy: As the winner of What Car’s Best for Value award 2022 for large SUVs, the New Citroën C5 Aircross is ideal for efficiency.
- Craving comfort behind the wheel: the New Citroën C5 Aircross is part of our Advanced Comfort programme for the most luxurious passenger comfort.
The Citroën C5 X is ideal for getting around town with new safety features like Highway Driver Assist for peace of mind at the wheel. Its five-seater design has space for the whole family and its generous boot is also great for weekends away.
The Citroën C5 Aircross is great for daily journeys with the flexibility of four driving modes (Electric, Hybrid, Comfort and Sport). With up to 180 hp of power from your PureTech petrol engine and 110 hp from the electric motor for a combined 225 hp, you can count on this long-range electric car for a powerful and dynamic drive.